Caradoc can use draw to see off his rivals

Count on CARADOC (York, 2.30) to put his rivals to the sword in today’s John Smith’s Cup. named after a knight of the Round table, Ed Walker’s five-year-old might not be quite as fearless as his legendary namesake but he rarely shirks a battle and he enjoyed the perfect preparation for today’s feature on Derby Day at Epsom. the selection had just one rival behind him at the two-furlong marker in the handicap won by Sky Defender yet passed a number of his foes from that point to snatch sixth on the line. Because of his exuberance, Caradoc has to be switched off and settled otherwise he expends too much early energy. However, a big-field handicap like this afternoon’s on the Knavesmire should help James Doyle encourage his mount to drop his head and relax. Doyle appears well drawn to find some cover and, although one or two of the main contenders like Solid Stone and Harrovian are still improving, there is every chance we haven’t seen the best of Caradoc either. Fifth Position would rate a major contender if a shower or two hit York, while Archie Perkins is arguably too big a price given he pushed Harrovian all the way at Doncaster last time and is extremely consistent at 10 furlongs. the nap vote goes the way of

ZLATAN (Haydock, nap, 4.20), who should relish the return to a flat track after running with credit at Pontefract and all four of his career wins have been when he was returned to action between six and 20 days.